Most Scenic Hikes in New Jersey: Explore Breathtaking Views
New Jersey offers a variety of hiking trails that provide some of the most stunning views on the East Coast. From challenging mountain climbs to serene forest walks, there's a trail for every type of hiker. Here, we explore the top scenic hikes in New Jersey that will leave you in awe of the state's natural beauty.
1. Mount Tammany
Location: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Columbia, NJ
Trailhead: Dunnfield Creek Natural Area Trailhead off Route 80
Trail Description: The Mount Tammany Red Dot Trail is a 1.2-mile steep, rocky hike offering breathtaking views of the Delaware Water Gap, Delaware River, and Mount Minsi. The trail features several scenic overlooks and a challenging climb. At the summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas and a variety of wildlife. The Blue Dot Trail can be taken for a more gradual descent, making the total hike a 3.3-mile loop.
2. Stairway to Heaven
Location: Wawayanda State Park, Vernon, NJ
Trailhead: Route 94 parking lot, Vernon Township, NJ
Trail Description: This 2.6-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail leads to Pinwheel Vista. The hike starts with a gentle incline through fields of wildflowers and becomes steeper and rockier, featuring a series of rock staircases. The views from Pinwheel Vista are stunning, offering a panoramic view of Vernon Valley, the Kittatinny Mountains, and on clear days, High Point Monument. The trail is well-marked and popular, especially on weekends.
3. Norvin Green State Forest
Location: Bloomingdale, NJ
Trailhead: Weis Ecology Center
Trail Description: Norvin Green State Forest offers several trails with varying difficulty levels. The Wyanokie High Point Trail is particularly notable for its views of the New York City skyline and the surrounding highlands. The forested trails are serene and provide a great escape from urban life. The park features diverse flora and fauna, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
4. High Point Monument Trail
Location: High Point State Park, Sussex, NJ
Trailhead: Monument Trail parking area
Trail Description: The trail to the High Point Monument is about 3.5 miles long and provides a mix of forested paths and open areas. The monument itself offers spectacular views of New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania from the highest point in New Jersey. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and is perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking.
5. Liberty State Park
Location: Jersey City, NJ
Trailhead: Liberty State Park main entrance
Trail Description: Liberty State Park features walking paths with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The park's Liberty Walk is ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, and picnicking. The area is flat and accessible, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
6. Rocky Point Trail, Hartshorne Woods
Location: Highlands, NJ
Trailhead: Rocky Point parking area
Trail Description: The Rocky Point Trail in Hartshorne Woods Park is about 4 miles long and offers beautiful views of the Navesink River and the Atlantic Ocean. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. The park is also rich in history, featuring old military installations and various scenic viewpoints.
7. State Line Trail to Surprise Lake
Location: Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, West Milford, NJ
Trailhead: State Line Trailhead parking on Warwick Turnpike
Trail Description: This trail leads to Surprise Lake and offers stunning views of Greenwood Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is moderately challenging with rocky terrain and several elevation changes. Surprise Lake is a beautiful spot for a break, offering peaceful waters and lovely scenery.
8. Buttermilk Falls
Location: Walpack Township, NJ
Trailhead: Buttermilk Falls parking area on Mountain Road
Trail Description: Buttermilk Falls is New Jersey's highest waterfall, and the trail offers views of the falls and a challenging hike up the mountain. The trail is steep and can be slippery, but the views of the cascading water and the surrounding forest are worth the effort.
9. Point Mountain
Location: Lebanon Township, NJ
Trailhead: Point Mountain Road
Trail Description: The Point Mountain Trail in Hunterdon County offers scenic views of the Musconetcong River and the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately difficult, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. The summit provides a lovely overlook, making it a popular spot for hikers.
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